02.07.13
GB Railfreight calls for integrated electrification
The UK must develop an aligned electrification investment strategy for rail and freight, GB Railfreight has urged.
In evidence to the Transport Select Committee on its inquiry into ‘Access to Ports’, GB Railfreight calls for one growth system for investment into ports and rail, with electrification of Network Rail infrastructure initially focused on the intermodal commodity and aimed at ports currently investing private sector capital in their own rail facilities such as the port of Felixstowe and London Gateway.
Managing director John Smith said: “Whilst there has been a lot of buzz around electrification of rail freight services in general and the “electric spine” in particular, from a practical perspective the only freight commodity that could be easily electrically hauled is the intermodal (container) market.
“In this regard, the investment committed to an electric spine in relation to rail freight would be better focused on ensuring that the current gaps are filled in on the key corridors from Felixstowe and the new Thames Gateway development to the Midlands, North West and North East, along with the privately owned intermodal terminals not currently electrified.
“Without an aligned growth strategy and investment plan for ports and rail as one system, the freight industry and the UK economy will suffer.”
Tell us what you think – have your say below, or email us directly at [email protected]